Antidepressant Risks and Management Strategies
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Questions and Answers

What is the age group that carries an increased risk of suicidal thinking when taking antidepressants?

  • Adults older than 60
  • Individuals over 25
  • Adults aged 18-24 (correct)
  • Children and adolescents only

Which class of antidepressants inhibits the presynaptic serotonin reuptake by acting on the 5-HT transporter?

  • Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) (correct)
  • Tricyclic antidepressants (TCAs)
  • Atypical antidepressants
  • Monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs)

What management strategy is suggested for patients experiencing GI adverse effects while on SSRIs?

  • Take with a small snack or meal (correct)
  • Switch to a different medication class
  • Reduce the dosage immediately
  • Take the medication on an empty stomach

What is the recommended action for a patient experiencing increased anxiety after starting an SSRI?

<p>Slowly titrate the dose to minimize exacerbation (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following statements is true regarding the risk associated with antidepressants in adults over 24?

<p>There is no increased risk of suicidal thoughts. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What common adverse effect is associated with both Gabapentin and Pregabalin?

<p>Somnolence (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is a dose-related adverse effect of Topiramate?

<p>Weight loss (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which mechanism of action is associated with Topiramate?

<p>Inhibition of sodium channels (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is an indication for Topiramate?

<p>Partial seizures (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What adverse effect is specifically associated with the use of carbonic anhydrase inhibitors like Topiramate?

<p>Metabolic acidosis (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which adverse effect is least likely to occur with Topiramate?

<p>Weight gain (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following conditions is NOT effectively treated with Topiramate?

<p>Muscle spasms (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which patient monitoring is essential for someone taking Topiramate?

<p>Serum bicarbonate levels (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following anticonvulsants is not typically used for treating non-epileptic seizures?

<p>Gabapentin (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is a key reason for monitoring anticonvulsant drug levels?

<p>To confirm complete seizure control without any medication-related side effects (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which factor is NOT considered when selecting an anticonvulsant for a patient?

<p>Patient's eye color (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What does it mean when it is stated to 'treat the patient, not the number' in the context of seizure management?

<p>Focus solely on patient symptoms rather than lab results (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following best describes when to obtain drug levels for an anticonvulsant?

<p>After a dose adjustment or suspected toxicity (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following medications is effective against glutamate-induced excitability?

<p>Lacosamide (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary indication for adjusting the dosage of anticonvulsants?

<p>To address inadequate seizure control (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is a common characteristic of effective anticonvulsants?

<p>Good safety profile and tolerability (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which medication is specifically indicated for absence seizures?

<p>Ethosuximide (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the therapeutic level for Ethosuximide?

<p>50-100 mcg/ml (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What potential side effect of Ethosuximide is most likely to be transient?

<p>Lethargy (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which medication should be avoided as it may exacerbate myoclonic seizures?

<p>Phenytoin (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following medications is known to decrease the metabolism of Ethosuximide?

<p>Valproic acid (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which combination of therapies is likely to be effective for a patient experiencing generalized tonic-clonic seizures?

<p>Benzodiazepines and Valproic acid (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is a common adverse effect of Ethosuximide?

<p>GI distress (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which medications are preferred for elderly patients or those with poor hepatic function?

<p>Lorazepam, oxazepam, temazepam (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is one of the common adverse effects of hydroxyzine?

<p>Xerostomia (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which anticonvulsant medication binds to GABA receptors?

<p>Pregabalin (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the mechanism of action of buspirone?

<p>Binds to 5-HT1A receptors (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What could potentially occur with the long-term use of gabapentin?

<p>Peripheral edema (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which anticonvulsant medication is commonly used to manage refractory epilepsy?

<p>None of the above (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following may be considered when determining an appropriate anticonvulsant regimen?

<p>Half-life of medication (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the maximum recommended dose of buspirone?

<p>60 mg daily (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which side effect is least likely associated with pregabalin?

<p>Increased alertness (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following best describes epilepsy?

<p>Recurrent, unprovoked seizures (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which age group is at increased risk of suicidal thinking and behavior with antidepressant use?

<p>Young adults aged 18-24 (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which medication is known for a high risk of discontinuation syndrome when stopped abruptly?

<p>Paroxetine (Paxil) (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which SSRI has a higher incidence of anti-cholinergic adverse effects?

<p>Paroxetine (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the maximum initial dose for Sertraline (Zoloft)?

<p>200 mg (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which patient population does not require a dose adjustment for Sertraline?

<p>Geriatric patients (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which medication should be considered for a patient with MDD and a history of anxiety?

<p>Fluvoxamine (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What side effect is commonly associated with the abrupt discontinuation of Paroxetine?

<p>Nausea (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What unique feature is associated with Fluvoxamine?

<p>It is primarily prescribed for OCD (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which patient is at the highest risk for suicidal thoughts due to antidepressant use?

<p>18 year old with MDD and current smoker (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which medication is most associated with a risk of discontinuation syndrome?

<p>Paroxetine (Paxil) (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the recommended initial dose of Sertraline (Zoloft)?

<p>25 mg daily (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which patient population does NOT require dose adjustment for anti-depressants due to renal function?

<p>Patients with normal renal function (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is a common adverse effect that occurs with Paroxetine (Paxil)?

<p>Dry mouth (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which feature is unique to Sertraline (Zoloft) compared to other SSRIs?

<p>Active metabolite N-desmethylsertraline (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which medication is NOT a common choice for managing MDD with a history of anxiety?

<p>Bupropion (Wellbutrin) (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the maximum recommended initial dose of Fluvoxamine?

<p>300 mg daily (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which type of seizure involves both hemispheres of the brain?

<p>Generalized tonic-clonic seizure (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is a common method by which anticonvulsants enhance synaptic inhibition?

<p>Enhancing GABA activity (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which anticonvulsant is least likely to be prescribed for complex partial seizures?

<p>Ethosuximide (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the mechanism of action for the anticonvulsant Vigabatrin?

<p>Inhibits GABA breakdown (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which class of drugs primarily targets voltage-gated ion channels to exert their effect?

<p>Anticonvulsants (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which type of seizure is characterized by sudden lapse in awareness, often with minimal physical manifestation?

<p>Absence seizure (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What aspect of anticonvulsants might lead to the need for individualized treatment planning?

<p>Not all anticonvulsants work on every seizure type (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following medications is specifically used for the treatment of myoclonic seizures?

<p>Levetiracetam (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is a non-dose related adverse effect of Phenytoin?

<p>Gingival Hyperplasia (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is a key characteristic of Fosphenytoin compared to Phenytoin?

<p>Can be administered intramuscularly (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which adverse effect is associated with long-term use of Phenytoin?

<p>Coarsening of facial features (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is a precaution to consider when prescribing Phenytoin?

<p>May lead to osteomalacia in the elderly and adolescents (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which statement regarding Phenytoin's mechanism of action is accurate?

<p>It inhibits sodium channels to stabilize neuronal membranes (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is a significant adverse effect associated with Phenobarbital use?

<p>Ataxia (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is a common dosage range for Gabapentin?

<p>900-3600mg divided q8h (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following medications is preferred for elderly patients with poor hepatic function?

<p>Lorazepam (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary mechanism of action for buspirone?

<p>5-HT1A receptor agonism (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What potential effect can occur with the use of Pregabalin?

<p>Increased sedation (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which adverse effect is commonly associated with hydroxyzine?

<p>Somnolence (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

How should the dose of Gabapentin be adjusted in patients with renal failure?

<p>Decrease the dose and extend the interval (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is an important consideration when prescribing gabapentin?

<p>Dose-dependent adverse effects (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the main mechanism of action (MOA) for Gabapentin?

<p>Modify release of GABA and reduce glutamate release (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is a key characteristic of Pregabalin compared to Gabapentin?

<p>Linear response in plasma levels to increased dose (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which medication is primarily used in the management of refractory epilepsy?

<p>Gabapentin (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the therapeutic range for phenytoin?

<p>10-20 mcg/ml (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is a risk associated with Phenobarbital use regarding physical dependence?

<p>Risk of both psychological and physical dependence (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is a common adverse effect noted with the long-term use of pregabalin?

<p>Peripheral edema (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

In treating anxiety, which medication binds to H1 receptors?

<p>Hydroxyzine (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What condition does refractory epilepsy describe?

<p>Unprovoked seizures that do not respond to treatment (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the mechanism of action of Levetiracetam (Keppra)?

<p>Affects vesicular release of GABA and glutamate (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which parameter is essential when selecting an appropriate anticonvulsant regimen?

<p>Onset of action (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is true regarding the dosage of Lacosamide (Vimpat)?

<p>The dose is typically 200-400mg divided q12h (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What type of side effects are associated with Levetiracetam?

<p>Psychosis and agitation (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is a significant characteristic of the bioavailability of Levetiracetam?

<p>It is 100% bioavailable (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which patient condition should be avoided when prescribing Levetiracetam?

<p>History of psychiatric disorder (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What adverse effect is most likely associated with Lacosamide?

<p>Prolonged PR interval (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following describes a notable aspect of Lacosamide's pharmacokinetics?

<p>It has minimal protein binding (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is a common route of administration for Lacosamide?

<p>Available in both IV and oral forms (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Flashcards

Antidepressant black box warning

Increased risk of suicidal thoughts/behaviors in children, adolescents, and young adults (18-24) taking antidepressants, especially with mood disorders.

SSRI MOA

Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors block serotonin re-absorption, increasing serotonin levels in the synapse.

SSRI Adverse Effects

Common side effects of SSRIs include GI problems, headaches, sleep issues, and anxiety. These are usually manageable.

Antidepressant Classes

A group of medications used to treat depression, including SSRIs, SNRIs, atypical antidepressants, TCAs & MAOIs.

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No increased risk for adults >24

Studies showed no increased risk of suicidal thoughts in people over 24 taking antidepressants.

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Black Box Warning for Antidepressants

Antidepressants can increase the risk of suicidal thoughts and actions in children, adolescents, and young adults (18-24) with major depressive disorder.

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Paroxetine (Paxil) Discontinuation Syndrome

Abrupt stopping of Paroxetine can cause a discontinuation syndrome due to its short half-life.

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Sertraline (Zoloft) Dosage Adjustment in Renal Patients

No dose adjustment is needed for Sertraline in renal patients.

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Fluvoxamine (Luvox) Use

Primarily used to treat obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD).

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Discontinuation Syndrome

A set of symptoms that can occur when a medication is stopped abruptly, particularly for certain medications like SSRIs.

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MDD (Major Depressive Disorder)

A mental illness characterized by persistent sadness, hopelessness, and loss of interest in activities.

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Antidepressants for MDD and Anxiety

Medications used to treat both major depressive disorder (MDD) and anxiety conditions.

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Venlafaxine (Effexor)

An antidepressant that is a common treatment for both MDD and anxiety-related mental health disorders.

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Benzodiazepines for Anxiety

Used for short-term anxiety relief due to potential dependence. Lorazepam, oxazepam, and temazepam are preferred in elderly or those with liver problems.

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Alternative Anxiolytics

Few effective medications exist for anxiety besides benzodiazepines. Examples include hydroxyzine, gabapentin, pregabalin, and buspirone.

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Hydroxyzine (Atarax®)

Antihistamine with muscle relaxing and antiemetic effects. Used for anxiety, but also helpful for muscle tension and nausea.

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Gabapentin (Neurontin®)

Similar to GABA, but doesn't bind to GABA receptors directly. Used for anxiety, but also seizures and nerve pain.

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Pregabalin (Lyrica®)

GABA analog with unclear mechanism, but binds to alpha2-delta site. Used for anxiety, seizures, and nerve pain.

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Buspirone (Buspar®)

Works by binding to 5-HT1A receptors and has some affinity for D2 receptors. Used for anxiety, but takes time to work.

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Anticonvulsant Drug Selection

Choosing the right anticonvulsant involves considering the seizure type, comorbid conditions, safety, tolerability, pharmacokinetics, drug interactions, ease of use, cost, and drug monitoring needs.

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Epilepsy vs. Seizure

A seizure is a single, isolated event. Epilepsy is a chronic brain disorder characterized by recurrent seizures.

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Treating Seizures

The primary goal is to treat the underlying cause of the seizure. Anticonvulsants are not used for non-epileptic seizures.

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Therapeutic Drug Monitoring

Monitoring drug levels is important for anticonvulsant therapy to ensure effective seizure control without adverse effects.

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Lacosamide

An anticonvulsant effective for partial-onset seizures. It can be used as monotherapy or added to other anticonvulsants.

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Phenytoin

A classic anticonvulsant effective for tonic-clonic seizures and partial-onset seizures. It has a narrow therapeutic window.

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Ethosuximide

Specifically effective for absence seizures, a type of generalized seizure characterized by brief lapses in consciousness.

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Felbamate

An anticonvulsant often used for refractory seizures, meaning they are difficult to control with other medications.

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Gabapentin (Neurontin) & Pregabalin (Lyrica)

Medications commonly used to treat seizures and neuropathic pain. They can cause side effects like drowsiness, dizziness, and weight gain.

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Gabapentin & Pregabalin: Side Effects

Common side effects include drowsiness, dizziness, ataxia (loss of coordination), weight gain, and peripheral edema (swelling in the extremities).

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Topiramate (Topamax)

A seizure medication that blocks sodium channels, enhances GABA activity, and reduces glutamate receptor activity. It's helpful in cases where other anti-seizure drugs aren't effective.

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Topiramate: Mechanism of Action

Topiramate works by blocking sodium channels, increasing the effects of GABA (a calming neurotransmitter) and reducing the activity of glutamate (an excitatory neurotransmitter).

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Topiramate: Uses

It's effective for different types of seizures, including partial seizures, Lennox-Gastaut syndrome, West syndrome, and absence seizures.

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Topiramate: Adverse Effects

Common side effects are dose-related and include metabolic acidosis, weight loss, somnolence, fatigue, dizziness, cognitive slowing, paresthesias (tingling), nervousness, and confusion. Rare side effects include acute myopia (nearsightedness), glaucoma, urolithiasis (kidney stones), and hypothermia.

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Topiramate: Monitoring

Due to its impact on bicarbonate levels, it's important to monitor serum bicarbonate levels during Topamax treatment.

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Topiramate: Drug Interactions

Topiramate has moderate interactions with the CYP3A4 enzyme, so dose adjustments may be required.

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Ethosuximide (Zarontin)

A medication specifically used to treat absence seizures. It selectively inhibits calcium channels, effectively reducing seizure activity.

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Valproic Acid

A versatile anti-epileptic that treats various seizure types, including generalized tonic-clonic, myoclonic, and absence seizures. It possesses broad-spectrum efficacy.

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Myoclonic seizures

Sudden, brief muscle jerks or twitches that may be accompanied by a loss of consciousness. They often occur in clusters.

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Absence seizures

Brief episodes of staring or altered awareness, often lasting just a few seconds. These seizures are characterized by a sudden loss of consciousness and a blank stare.

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Generalized tonic-clonic seizure

A major seizure characterized by a loss of consciousness, stiffening of the body, and rhythmic jerking movements.

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Ethosuximide Therapeutic Level

The optimal range of medication levels in the blood to ensure effective treatment of absence seizures. This range is 50-100 mcg/ml.

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Atonic seizures

Characterized by a sudden loss of muscle tone, causing the individual to slump or collapse. These are often treatment resistant.

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Adverse effects of Ethosuximide

Potential side effects include gastrointestinal distress, lethargy, fatigue, headache, dizziness, hiccups, euphoria, and psychosis. Most effects are transient and tend to subside with time or dose adjustments.

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Epilepsy

A chronic brain disorder characterized by recurrent seizures.

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Refractory Epilepsy

Epilepsy that doesn't respond well to standard medications, even after trying different treatments.

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Venlafaxine (Effexor) for MDD and Anxiety?

Venlafaxine (Effexor) is an antidepressant that is a common treatment for both MDD and anxiety-related mental health disorders.

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Which medication is most concerning for discontinuation syndrome?

Paroxetine (Paxil) is the most concerning due to its short half-life, making abrupt discontinuation more likely to lead to discontinuation syndrome.

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Which agent may be most beneficial in a patient with MDD and a history of anxiety?

Venlafaxine (Effexor) is often a good choice for patients with both MDD and anxiety due to its effectiveness in treating both conditions.

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Phenytoin (Dilantin): Dose-Related Adverse Effects

Phenytoin, at higher doses, can cause side effects like nystagmus (eye twitching), diplopia (double vision), ataxia (loss of coordination), and sedation.

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Phenytoin (Dilantin): Long-Term Adverse Effects

Long-term use of phenytoin can lead to coarsening of facial features, peripheral neuropathy (nerve damage), abnormal vitamin D metabolism, and potential for osteomalacia/osteoporosis.

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Phenytoin (Dilantin): Non-Dose Related Adverse Effects

Phenytoin, regardless of dose, can cause side effects like gingival hyperplasia (gum overgrowth), hirsutism (excess hair growth), rash, fever, and hepatotoxicity (liver damage).

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Fosphenytoin (Cerebyx): Advantages

Fosphenytoin is a prodrug of phenytoin that offers advantages. It's less likely to cause rate-related hypotension, infusion-site reactions, or extravasation/purple glove syndrome.

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Fosphenytoin (Cerebyx): Disadvantages

Fosphenytoin shares the same adverse effects as phenytoin, including cardiotoxicity. It's important to be aware of these potential issues.

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Seizure Types

Seizures can be categorized as partial (affecting one side of the brain) or generalized (affecting both sides). Partial seizures can be further classified as simple partial (no loss of awareness) or complex partial (loss of awareness). Generalized seizures include tonic-clonic, absence, tonic, atonic, and myoclonic seizures.

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Anticonvulsant MOA

Anticonvulsants work by modulating the activity of neurotransmitters and ion channels. They can enhance inhibitory neurotransmitters (GABA), inhibit excitatory neurotransmitters (glutamate, NMDA), and modify voltage-gated ion channels (Na+, Ca2+, K+).

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Enhance GABA

Some anticonvulsants work by increasing the effects of GABA, an inhibitory neurotransmitter that helps calm brain activity. This helps control seizure activity by reducing excessive neuronal firing.

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Inhibit Glutamate

Some anticonvulsants work by blocking the activity of glutamate, an excitatory neurotransmitter. This helps reduce excessive stimulation in the brain and prevent seizures.

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Modulate Ion Channels

Anticonvulsants can also work by altering the activity of ion channels in nerve cells. This can affect the flow of ions like sodium, calcium, and potassium, which ultimately helps control neuronal firing and prevent excessive activity.

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Phenobarbital (Luminal) Adverse Effects

Phenobarbital has a range of adverse effects, including sedation, hypotension, cognitive problems, ataxia, hyperactivity, stupor (at higher levels), and coma (at very high levels).

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Phenytoin Therapeutic Range

The therapeutic range for phenytoin is 10-20 mcg/mL. It is important to monitor phenytoin levels regularly to ensure the patient is within this range.

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Gabapentin (Neurontin) MOA

Gabapentin's mechanism of action involves modifying the release of GABA (a calming neurotransmitter) and reducing the release of glutamate (an excitatory neurotransmitter).

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Gabapentin Dosage Adjustment

Dose adjustments for gabapentin are necessary in patients with renal failure to adjust for slower drug clearance.

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Pregabalin: Abuse Potential

Pregabalin is a Schedule V drug, meaning it has a lower potential for abuse than other controlled medications.

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Gabapentin and Pregabalin: Absorption and Dosing

Absorption of gabapentin and pregabalin decreases as doses increase, making it beneficial to divide large doses to improve absorption.

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Anti-seizure Medications: Crucial Factors

Choosing the right anti-seizure medication involves several important factors including: seizure type, comorbid conditions, safety, tolerability, pharmacokinetics, drug interactions, ease of use, cost, and monitoring needs.

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Levetiracetam (Keppra) MOA

Levetiracetam affects the release of GABA and glutamate neurotransmitters, helping to balance brain activity.

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Levetiracetam Dosing

Levetiracetam is typically dosed 500-3000mg twice daily. It reaches steady state levels in the body quickly.

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Lacosamide (Vimpat) MOA

Lacosamide works by slowing down the activity of sodium channels and potentially promoting nerve health through CRMP-2.

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Lacosamide Dosing

Lacosamide is typically dosed 200-400mg twice daily.

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Levetiracetam: Adverse Effects

Common side effects of Levetiracetam include drowsiness, fatigue, and dizziness. In some cases, agitation, anxiety, or psychosis can occur.

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Lacosamide: Adverse Effects

Lacosamide can cause dizziness, headache, nausea, double vision, and a prolonged PR interval on an EKG.

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Common Anti-Seizure Drug Monitoring

Many anti-seizure medications do not require routine blood level monitoring unless there are concerns.

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Titrating Anti-Seizure Medications

Anti-seizure medications should often be gradually increased in dose to minimize side effects.

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Study Notes

Central Nervous System Medications

  • Objectives for the presentation include reviewing the mechanisms of action and adverse effects of commonly used central nervous system (CNS) agents.
  • Objectives also include identifying important counseling points for patients prescribed CNS agents, developing an optimized psychotropic regimen considering patient and medication characteristics, summarizing clinically significant drug interactions, and outlining key monitoring parameters and contraindications for CNS agents.

Neurotransmitters

  • Major inhibitory neurotransmitters in the CNS include GABA and Glycine.
  • Glycine is present in the spinal cord and brainstem.
  • GABA is widespread throughout the CNS.
  • Glutamate is the major excitatory neurotransmitter in the CNS.
  • It interacts with AMPA, KA, and NMDA receptors in all neurons of the CNS.
  • NMDA receptors are important for relaying continuing signals in the CNS.
  • Serotonin (5-HT) has many pathways originating in the raphe or midline region of the pons/upper brainstem.
  • It plays a role in diverse processes including perception, mood, attention, pain, and temperature control.
  • It is a target for antidepressants and antipsychotics.
  • Norepinephrine (NE) is an α₁, α₂, and β₁ agonist with little β₂ activity.
  • It is present in the locus caeruleus (LC) and lateral tegmental area.
  • It's involved in vasoconstriction, tachycardia, increased cardiac output, increased peripheral resistance, and hypertension.
  • It is a target of ADHD drugs.
  • Dopamine (DA) has several pathways with diverse functions, including higher-order cognitive functions (motivation, impulse control, and emotion) and the reward pathway (mesolimbic).
  • It also plays a role in regulating movement (nigrostriatal) and prolactin (tuberoinfundibular).
  • Acetylcholine (ACh) interacts with muscarinic and nicotinic receptors, leading to both excitatory and inhibitory effects.
  • Muscarinic receptors affect smooth muscle, and nicotinic receptors affect skeletal muscle.
  • Presynaptic nicotinic receptors regulate the release of glutamate, 5-HT, GABA, DA, and NE in the CNS.
  • Acetylcholine is hydrolyzed by acetylcholinesterase (AChE).

Cholinergic Effects/Toxidrome

  • Cholinergic effects are described using the mnemonic DUMBELS: Diarrhea, Urination, Miosis, Bronchoconstriction/bradycardia, Emesis, Lacrimation, and Salivation/sweating .
  • Conversely, anticholinergic effects are opposite, described as "DRYNESS of the mouth, vision, and bowel."

ACh Effects

  • ACh affects many bodily systems, including ocular effects (miosis), cardiac effects (negative chronotropy, inotropy, dromotropy), respiratory effects (bronchoconstriction, increased secretions), gastrointestinal effects (increased motility, sphincter relaxation, increased secretions), urinary effects (detrusor muscle contraction, sphincter relaxation, increased secretions), and endocrine effects (diaphoresis, siallorrhea, lacrimation, nasopharyngeal).

ANTI-cholinergic Effects

  • Anticholinergic effects are the opposite of DUMBELS (Dry mouth, vision, bowel).
  • They include; dry mouth, flushed skin, blurred vision, constipation, etc.

CNS & Psychiatric Medications

  • Includes antidepressants, antipsychotics, mood stabilizers, and anxiolytics. Antidepressant overview includes categories like SSRIs, SNRIs, TCAs, MAOIs, and atypical antidepressants.

Treatment of Major Depressive Disorder (MDD)

  • Treatment options include pharmacotherapy, psychotherapy, and somatic therapies (e.g., ECT, TMS, light therapy).

Pharmacotherapy of MDD

  • Treatment decision-making is influenced by comorbid conditions, anticipated side effects, pharmacologic properties (e.g., half-life, drug interactions), previous response to antidepressants, cost, and patient preference.
  • Antidepressant effects often take 4-6 weeks to fully manifest.

Black Box Warning

  • All antidepressants have a black box warning for an increased risk of suicidal thinking and behavior in adolescents and young adults (18-24) with major depressive disorder and other psychiatric disorders in short-term studies.
  • No increased risk for adults older than 24 years.

Antidepressants: Overview

  • Includes SSRIs, SNRIs, atypical antidepressants, TCAs, and MAOIs.
  • Mechanisms of action, adverse effects, and special considerations are covered.

Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors (SSRIs)

  • Mechanism of action involves inhibition of presynaptic serotonin reuptake, which leads to an increase of 5-HT (serotonin) in the synaptic cleft.
  • Common adverse effects include GI issues, headache, insomnia/sedation, anxiety, sexual dysfunction, SIADH, and discontinuation syndrome.
  • Management strategies address these adverse events.
  • Different SSRIs have different pharmacokinetic parameters, such as initial doses, geriatric dosing, renal/hepatic considerations, and unique features.

Serotonin/Norepinephrine Reuptake Inhibitors (SNRIs)

  • SNRIs inhibit the reuptake of serotonin and norepinephrine, leading to increased levels of these neurotransmitters in the synaptic cleft.
  • Higher doses of venlafaxine show dual action on both serotonin and norepinephrine.
  • Common adverse effects include hypertension.
  • Different SNRIs have specific characteristics in renal/hepatic considerations, and unique features.

Atypical Antidepressants

  • Includes mirtazapine, bupropion, trazodone, and nefazodone.
  • Mirtazapine's mechanism of action involves presynaptic α2 antagonism and 5-HT2/3 antagonism, leading to increases in synaptic concentrations of serotonin and norepinephrine.
  • Bupropion is a weak 5HT reuptake inhibitor, primarily targeting NE and DA reuptake blockade.
  • Trazodone is a weak 5-HT reuptake inhibitor and exhibits significant blockade of histamine and alpha-1 receptors.
  • Nefazodone is an atypical antidepressant that acts as a 5-HT2 antagonist and has some influence on serotonin and NE reuptake.

Tricyclic Antidepressants (TCAs)

  • TCAs are non-selective inhibitors of NE and 5-HT reuptake, having varying affinities for each.
  • Varying dose characteristics result in a variety of side effects.
  • Include a range of dose and side effect possibilities.
  • Common adverse effects include orthostatic hypotension, dry mouth, blurry vision, confusion, constipation, urinary retention, sedation, weight gain, conduction disturbances, EKG changes, and a decrease in seizure threshold.

Monoamine Oxidase Inhibitors (MAOIs)

  • Non-selective irreversible inhibitors of monoamine oxidase.
  • Monoamine oxidase (MAO) is responsible for the metabolism of serotonin (5HT), norepinephrine (NE) and dopamine (DA).
  • Potential for significant drug-drug and drug-food interactions, requiring careful dietary restrictions to prevent potentially dangerous hypertensive crises.
  • Including issues like weight gain, sedation and insomnia. Specific agents, dosing, and dietary recommendations.

Antipsychotics

  • Includes first-generation antipsychotics (FGAs) and second-generation antipsychotics (SGAs).
  • MOA for FGAs is primarily D2 blockade in the brain, with secondary effects on other receptors.
  • SGA primary MOA is that of post-synaptic blockage of D2 and 5-HT2A receptors.
  • Both classes are associated with a variety of side effects including, but not limited to, extrapyramidal symptoms (EPS), metabolic syndrome, and cardiac abnormalities.
  • Special considerations, such as patient preference, and potential effects for specific age groups (especially elderly populations) must be evaluated.

Mood Stabilizers

  • Include lithium, valproate, lamotrigine, carbamazepine, and oxcarbazepine.
  • All are associated with multiple side effects, and treatment for them can include the use of multiple medicines. Lithium, for example, is noted for its narrow therapeutic index and requires careful monitoring of blood levels.

Anticonvulsants

  • Include a number of important classes of drugs, and each are discussed with their appropriate indication.

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This quiz explores critical aspects of antidepressant use, focusing on the age groups at higher risk for suicidal thoughts and the class of antidepressants that inhibit serotonin reuptake. Additionally, it includes management strategies for gastrointestinal effects and reactions such as increased anxiety after initiating treatment. Test your knowledge on these essential topics related to mental health medication.

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